A new motion calling for PW Botha Boulevard in George to be renamed is set to land on the council agenda later this month. The GOOD Party says it has formally submitted the motion and that it will be tabled at the next George Municipal Council meeting on 29 January 2026.

The boulevard is a major east to west route through the Tamsui industrial area, linking Nelson Mandela Boulevard with York Street.

What GOOD is Asking For

The party argues that keeping the road name is inconsistent with South Africa’s constitutional values and that the municipality should start an official renaming process that includes meaningful public participation.

In its call, GOOD says the process should actively involve communities that were historically excluded from decisions like these. It also wants residents to be invited to propose alternative names that reflect democratic values, social justice and shared community heritage.

GOOD’s statement on the motion says it was submitted in terms of the municipality’s rules of order and is aimed at removing a public honour linked to an apartheid-era leader.

Pushback and Why the Name is Contested

Councillor Chantelle Kyd, who is bringing the motion, said she believes it is best not to propose a replacement name upfront, leaving communities to decide through participation.

The debate is not new. A 2017 application to rename the road to honour Abeeda Harris, a child killed during apartheid-era unrest, did not move forward through municipal processes. A similar motion was also submitted in 2016.

Political analyst Professor Andre Duvenhage has been quoted saying PW Botha had a long-standing connection to George and that name changes are often political processes.

What Happens Next

If the motion is adopted, council would need to initiate a formal renaming process, including public submissions and a final decision that is communicated with reasons.